A lot of thru-hikers select free standing tents that are lightweight and easy to set up. When researching your tent, read reviews and select carefully. Here are some other tips:
- If you are buying a one-person tent, try to keep the weigh around 3 lbs or less. A two-person tent should weigh between 3 – 4 lbs. The stakes should be lightweight as well.
- When comparing tent weights, look at the “Packaged Weight” which usually includes the tent, poles, fly, and extras. What you actually carry on the trail will probably be just a little less than this number.
- A few ultralight hikers use simple tarps or hammocks. If you are an experienced backpacker, these might be an option for you. A popular hammock is sold by War Bonnet Outdoors.
- To save additional weight, a lot of thru-hikers choose not to purchase the manufacturer’s footprint. The footprint is a ground cloth that acts as a protective layer from the ground. If you choose not to use a ground cloth, then be careful to select campsites that are free from pointy roots or other debris that could damage your tent’s floor. Alternatively, you could use another lightweight material to substitute as the footprint such as a lightweight Tyvek footprint.
- Read the manual and test your tent/hammock in various weather conditions. Additionally, practice setting it up quickly.
Here are some examples of one-person tents that thru-hikers have used. The manufacturer’s two-person tent is very similar. Manufacturer’s change models frequently, so check out their websites for the latest specifications.
- MSR Hubba Hubba 1 Tent: Price = $470, Packed Weight = 2 lbs 7 oz
- Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Tent: Price = $450, Packed Weight = 2 lbs 6 oz
- Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo Backpacking Tent: Price = $260, Packed Weight = 1 lb 10 oz